When to Transplant Peonies: Fall Moves plus Planting Depth
When to transplant peonies is in early fall. Iowa State University Extension notes September is the ideal time to move or divide peonies in Iowa. Cut the stems near the ground, dig as much of the root as you can plus replant each division with its buds just below the soil surface.
The short answer
Transplant peonies in September. Iowa State University Extension advises cutting stems near the ground, digging the clump with as much root as possible plus dividing it so each piece has 3 to 5 eyes. Set the buds 1 to 2 inches deep. University of Minnesota Extension advises against dividing in spring.
What does a good peony move look like?
Iowa State University Extension gives the key numbers for moving peonies.
| Step | Target | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Timing | September | Iowa State University Extension |
| Eyes per division | 3 to 5 | Iowa State University Extension |
| Bud depth | 1 to 2 inches | Iowa State University Extension |
| Sun | At least 6 hours | Iowa State University Extension |
| Spacing | 3 to 4 feet | Iowa State University Extension |
Source: Iowa State University Extension.
Why does depth matter?
Iowa State University Extension notes peonies planted too deep produce foliage but no flowers. Set the eyes, the pink buds on the crown, 1 to 2 inches below the soil surface. Soil settles after planting, so check the depth again in spring plus lift any crown that sank.
What happens the year after a move?
Iowa State University Extension notes moved peonies rarely bloom the next spring plus can take 2 to 3 years to bloom well. University of Minnesota Extension describes the pattern as sleep, creep, leap, with little growth the first year, more the second plus full growth the third.
How to: step by step
- Wait until September.
- Trim stems near the ground.
- Dig the clump with deep roots.
- Divide into pieces with 3 to 5 eyes.
- Set buds 1 to 2 inches deep.
- Mulch once the ground freezes.
Troubleshooting
No flowers after a move: normal recovery. Allow 2 to 3 years.
Leaves but no buds: crown set too deep. Lift it to 1 to 2 inches.
Weak small plant: division had fewer than 3 eyes. Allow it several years.
For related reading see garden microclimates for cannabis, planning an outdoor cannabis garden layout plus fall garden cleanup after cannabis harvest. Kind Seed Co also stocks cannabis seeds.
Sources
- Transplanting and dividing peonies, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach
- Dividing peonies, University of Minnesota Extension
- Reasons why peonies fail to bloom, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach
FAQ
Can peonies be moved in spring?
It is not advised. University of Minnesota Extension advises against dividing peonies in spring, plus Iowa State University Extension notes September is the ideal time to transplant them. Spring moves disturb roots just as the plant is pushing out stems plus buds, which sets it back more than a fall move.
How many eyes should each division have?
Iowa State University Extension advises 3 to 5 eyes per division. Pieces with fewer than 3 eyes can take several years to grow to blooming size. Cut the crown with a sharp knife so each piece has eyes plus a good share of the thick storage roots.
Do peonies need full sun?
Yes. Iowa State University Extension advises a site with at least 6 hours of direct sun per day. Shade reduces flowering. It also advises spacing plants 3 to 4 feet apart so air moves through the foliage. University of Minnesota Extension notes peonies grow in zones 2 to 8.
Why are my peonies not blooming?
Iowa State University Extension lists several causes. Recently moved peonies can take 2 to 3 years to bloom. Plants set too deep produce foliage but no flowers. Too much nitrogen fertilizer also favors leaves over buds. Shade from trees that grew larger over time is another common reason.
Should new peonies get winter mulch?
Iowa State University Extension advises mulching new plantings 4 to 6 inches deep with straw or pine needles in mid to late November, after the ground has frozen. Remove the mulch in early spring before shoots emerge. The mulch prevents repeated freezing plus thawing that can heave new crowns.
